Keeping the Succession Pac-Man Under Control

For employees of a family company, the arrival of a member of the next generation signals momentous changes. Suddenly, there is a new and potentially powerful player on the scene, a son or daughter who may wield influence with a parent and use that privileged access to advance his or her views and career.

As the succession process unfolds, some employees, anticipating the day when power will shift, may start to curry favor with the newcomer. Some may get caught in the crossfire of family arguments. Some will exploit family differences to their advantage. If one generation is winning the battle, employees may join it and “pile on” the loser.

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